Pretty In Paint

Manicure of the Day: Dainty Lace!

2014-01-24T10:42:00.002-05:00

I want to start this post by saying this was not my original idea, but I cannot for the life of me find the original post (If you know PLEASE comment below so I can properly credit the original!) I loved the dainty detail and need to get back in nail art practice, so I figured this was perfect!

I used Zoya Rue, Milani White on the Spot and Jessica Sparkling Silver for this design!

First I applied 2 coats of Zoya Rue and let dry. I used a thin nail art brush dipped in Miliani White on the Spot to create the design and. Once everything dried I applied 2-3 coats of Jessia Hologram Sparkling Silver to add a light holographic sparkly finish (its been my go-to for a little extra fun)!

I love how feminine this mani is! I am pretty happy with how it came out though I need to practice a bit more!

How do you feel about this mani? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

*Some products provided for honest review*

New Year, New Post! Mani of the Day: Snowflake Mani!

2014-01-09T19:44:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year! It has been a few months since I have blogged, the past year has brought me a lot of ups and downs and I feel like things have straightened themselves out enough where I can happily blog again!

To start my return to blogging I give you this mani inspired by one of my favorite bloggers The Lacquerologist! Check out her original mani here :)

I used Zoya Song, Milani White On the Spot, OPI Radiance and Jessica Hologram Sparkling Silver for this winter mani! It has been absolutely FREEZING so I figured this would be the perfect mani!

The last picture gives you a better look at the snowflake!

I started with 2 coats of Zoya Song with OPI DS Radiance on my accent finger! I used a thin nail art brush dipped in Miliani White on the Spot to create the snowflake and accent using a dotting tool. Once everything dried I applied 2-3 coats of Jessia Hologram Sparkling Silver to add a light holographic sparkly finish!

How do you feel about this mani? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

*Some products provided for honest review*

Preview :ZOYA SPRING 14 COLLECTION - AWAKEN and MONET

2014-01-06T14:43:00.000-05:00

New Nail Polish Collection for Spring 2014: Zoya Awaken

Just as Spring emerges from a natural Winter slumber, Zoya Awakens to a fresh season of BIG5FREE* color...

Open your mind to the beauty of color discovery; the new, the unexplored, the excitement! Awaken by Zoya - Six new, full-coverage, dew-drenched creams and gold-kissed metallic nail polish colors for Spring 2014. Full of pure pigment, intense color and modern complexity that will take you far beyond the hazy, barely there hues of seasons past into a new world of chromatic joy.

ZOYA AWAKEN - 2014 SPRING
• Dillon: Green Mint Shimmer Metallic Full Coverage Formula.
• Rebel: Blue Sky Shimmer Metallic, Full Coverage Formula.
• Hudson: Purple Orchid Shimmer Metallic, Full Coverage Formula (Yes, it's a Radiant Orchid!)
• Dot: Pink Petal Cream, Full Coverage Formula
(originally created for fashion designer Zang Toi’s SS14 collection).
• Cole: Peach Whisper Cream, Full Coverage Formula
(originally created for fashion designer Peter Som’s SS14 collection).
•Brooklyn: White-Gold Shimmer Metallic, Full Coverage Formula.

$9.00 ea. (US)

PLUS, A SPECIAL EDITION TOPPER
Create a nail color masterpiece. The multi-colored, holographic flakes of Zoya Monet lend an impressionistic color change option to existing color palettes. Never boring, this artistic topper can be applied as an accent or used as an overall color changer.

• Monet: Multi-Color, Cellophane Holographic Topper.

$10.00 ea. (US)

*BIG5FREE: Zoya Nail Polish and Treatment Formulas are free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, dibutyl phthalate, toluene and camphor.

Find over 300 long-wearing, beautiful Zoya colors on www.zoya.com. Each and every color has a name as unique as the women who inspired it.
ZOYA IS THE COLOR OF FASHION!
Available on Zoya.com

I am really excited about this collection, and especially to see how Monet lays on the nail and works with different polishes. Im also excited for Dillion and Rebel because Zoya adds some gorgeous sparkle to their polishes! Which are you most excited about? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Rainbow Honey: The Summer of 199X Review

2013-09-05T12:41:00.002-04:00

Today I have part the Rainbow Honey Summer of 199X Collection: Tiny Ruby, Lumine Bell and Pink Cloud!

According to Rainbow Honey "

Summer of 199X featuring 10 new colors inspired by the 1995 SNES hit, Earthbound.

“Another video game that holds a special place in my heart! I wanted this collection to bring me back into the game, and I think each new lacquer takes me to a special moment or reminds me of a certain boss that resulted in one too many Game Over’s...Part I is made up of 5 new glitterbombs bursting with shimmer and color - they all layer to opacity but can be used over other colors as well. Part II is 3 new shimmer-dusted cremes and 2 new glitter toppers that give each creme a bold or sweet look. I am so excited to add these all to our lineup!” – Dee" (From RainbowHoney.com)

This collection is full of some gorgeous glitters and cremes! and I am super excited to show you these three polishes!

Pink Cloud

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Coat 3:

Pink Cloud is described as "a hot pink jelly with holographic glitters and iridescent shimmer - perfect to meditate on and Carrot Key not needed!" Pink Cloud has a color that reminds me of pink lemonade! with red and silver glitter and a gorgeous shimmer! I used 3 coats for full coverage, the formula was a bit thin but 3 coats allowed for full coverage.

Tiny Ruby

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Tiny Ruby is described as "a shimmering ruby jelly, is filled with holographic glitters, glistening flecks, and the rarest jewels of Dalaam." I love!!!! Tiny Ruby which reminds me of Dorothy's slippers from Wizard of Oz! I am not normally a fan of reds but the shimmer and glitter in this is spectacular. I used 2 coats for full coverage and had no issues with the formula.

Lumine Hall

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

"Lumine Hall is a dark indigo jelly glistening with the iridescent glitters and shimmers of your deepest thoughts..." Lumine Hall is a gorgeous deep blue with square blue glitter and shimmer. I used 2 coats for full coverage. I didn't have many issues with the formula, it was not as smooth as Tiny Ruby but still was workable and covered fully.

I am a bit late with this review, but I still feel like the polishes can be worn in the Fall and should be! Do not pass up on these gorgeous polishes. Rainbow Honey is a special brand, and creates some pretty special polishes, I can't wait to see what else they will come up with next!

"custom blended nail lacquers by Rainbow Honey big 3 free - vegan - never tested on animals!"

Check out the Rainbow Honey Blog and Website

Like Rainbow Honey on Facebook

How do you feel about this collection? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

*Products provided for honest review*

Mani of the Day: Milani Cloud Mani

2013-08-13T20:45:00.000-04:00

Today I have a Mani of the Day post using some of the Milani polishes of the last few posts! I did a simple double cloud mani using Peacock, Blue Jay and Creamy Pistachio (Reviews here and here).

This mani is incredibly simple, I first applied 2-3 coats of Peacock and the for each layer you create 3 vertical swipes of polishes per layer! Finish up with a topcoat and viola!

I am really happy with how this mani came out, it is super easy to do and I got a ton of compliments!

How do you feel about this mani? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Milani Fantastical Plumage Collection!

2013-08-07T20:24:00.001-04:00

Today I have the Milani Fantastical Plumage Collection! This collection features 5 cremes and 1 specialty Sprinkles effect topcoat! According to Milani this collection "was inspired by the vibrant and tropical colors of feathers."

Peacock

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Peacock is a bright sky blue creme. I used 2 coats for full opacity. The formula was decently smooth, but not the easiest to work with. I love the brightness of this color and am a sucker for blues so Peacock is a winner to me!

Blue Jay

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Blue Jay is a medium royal blue creme. I used 2 coats for full opacity. The formula of Blue Jay was even and smooth, I had no issues with application in 2 coats. I love this royal blue, I don't own another polish like it so I am happy to add it to my collection.

Purple Martin

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Coat 3:

Purple Martin is a medium lavender creme. I used 3 coats for full opacity. Like Peacock, the formula was not the easiest to work with, but I didn't have too many issues with application.

Canary

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Canary is a bright yellow creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. I did not have any issues with application, which I find fantastic for a yellow, you don't typically find that! I love this bright yellow and am happy to add it to my polish collection!

Scarlet

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Scarlet is a medium red-orange creme. I used 2 coats for full opacity. I did not have any issues with the formula, it applied smoothly and evenly.

Carnival

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Carnival is black and white glitter mix, there is a mix of larger white hexagons, smaller black hexagons and black bar glitter. You can use either 1 or 2 coats to your liking. I had a bit of an issue with glitter placement, it required a decent amount of manipulation.

Overall I think the Fantastical Plumage Collection has some great cremes that I am glad to add to my collection, there are a few issues with formula, but nothing incredible drastic.

Milani Polishes are DBP, Toluene & Formaldehyde Free and retail for $4.49 for the cremes and $4.99 for the Sprinkles top coat at various drugstores.

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Milani Retro Glam Collection!

2013-07-31T18:21:00.000-04:00

Today I have the Milani Retro Glam Collection up for review! According to Milani "This Limited Edition nail collection was inspired by retro psychedelic floral prints from the 60's & 70's. The nail lacquer formula is long-wearing, chip-resistant, and super gloss"

The collection features 5 Cremes and a Sprinkle Topcoat!

Almond Bliss

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Almond Bliss is a off-white creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. I was not thrilled with the formula of Almond Bliss it was a bit uneven, though seemed to end up decently after 2-3 coats.

Creamy Pistachio

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Creamy Pistachio is a light mint creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. Like Almond Breeze, Creamy Pistachio was not the easiest to work with, a bit uneven and almost thick at times.

Mint Chip

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Mint Chip is a brighter green creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. I had less issues with Mint Chip, the formula was smoother and a bit more even.

Strawberry Shake

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Coat 3:

Strawberry Shake is a medium pastel pink creme with the slightest hint of shimmer. I used 3 coats for full opacity. As you can see by the first 2 coats, the formula was not spectacular, but everything evened out by the third coat.

Raspberry Delight

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Raspberry Delight is a brighter darker pink with the faintest shimmer. I used 2 coats for full coverage and found the formula decent to work with, but a bit uneven.

Sprinkles

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Sprinkles is a gorgeous combination of small white and black circle glitter, larger hexes, bar glitter and more! I LOVE both 1 and 2 coats of Sprinkles. This kind of polish has been popular among indies and I haven't been fortunate enough to get my hands on one. But I adore this combination of glitters and think there are endless possibilities. I didn't have to fish for glitter and it applied like a dream!

My favorite of this collection was the Sprinkles top coat effect, I am very excited to add it to my polish collection! Overall, some of the formulas were difficult to work with, though I worked with some of them again after these initial swatches and did not have as many issues with application.

Milani Polishes are DBP, Toluene & Formaldehyde Free and retail for $4.49 for the cremes and $4.99 for the Sprinkles top coat at various drugstores.

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Mani of the day: BATMAN!

2013-07-23T15:37:00.002-04:00

Nanananana...Today I have a BATMAN Mani! I bought this Batman Sippy cup from Target and immediately wanted to make a Batman themed mani! I used Top Shop Marine Scene, Milani Yellow Whiz and Black Swift, and China Glaze I'm not Lion.

I used 2 coats of Marine Scene and let them dry. Then I used 2 coats of Yellow Whiz to create cut off oval shapes on various parts of the nail for the background of my Batman logo. I waited for this to dry then used nail art brushes dipped in Black Swift to create the Batman shape. I wanted the logo to be cut off at various points of the nail to make it a bit more unique. I then used I'm Not Lion to add a glittery outline around the yellow oval shape. I topped everything off with a fast drying clear topcoat.

I am thrilled with how this mani turned out, I will definitely repeat something similar when I go to Comic Con! (Yes I am a giant nerd and proud!)

What do you think about this Manicure of the Day? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

*Some of the products used were provided for review*

Rainbow Honey FAB summer set!

2013-07-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

Today I have the Rainbow Honey Fab Summer Set! This set contains 3 polishes: Tenda, Costa de Sol and Schrammi.

The press release states: Exclusive to Fab, the Fab Summer Set is as refreshing as a cold sip of freshly squeezed lemonade. This set of three includes a dazzling array of shimmering polishes: kelly green, deep coral, and a sparkly lacquer that glitters with holographic flecks. Paint yourself in a beautiful new light. -fab

Tenda is a bright kelly green lacquer with golden shimmer

Costa del sol is a shimmery lacquer full of iridescent and holographic glitters ready to add some sun and sparkle to your manicure

Schrammi is a deep coral lacquer with golden shimmer

The FAB Summer Set is now available through fab.com for a limited time only. Each set contains 3 full size 15ml nail lacquers designed exclusively for FAB by Rainbow Honey. $25. While supplies last. For more information visit http://fab.com/designer/rainbow-honey/"

Schrammi

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Schrammi is a gorgeous medium coral with a golden shimmer. I used 2 coats for full coverage. I found the formula easy to work with and opaque. I love the brightness of this polish! definitely a great summer shade.

Tenda

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Tenda is a bright green polish with a golden shimmer, honestly the first thing I thought of when I saw this polish was St.Patrick's day! It is the perfect green for the holiday! I used 2 coats for full and even coverage. I found Tenda slightly more difficult to work with, but overall great!

Costa De Sol

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Costa de Sol is a golden glitter mixture in a clear base. There are different sized hex glitters and fine glitter as well as some bar glitter! I like both 1 and 2 coats of Costa de Sol and feel its up to you! I didn't have to manipulate the glitter too much to get the desired look.

Overall, I love this FAB set, Rainbow Honey is a wonderful brand and I am super excited to be able to continue to share more of their polishes. Creams and glitters applied with ease, and I love the creativity behind their collections.

"custom blended nail lacquers by Rainbow Honey big 3 free - vegan - never tested on animals!"

Check out the Rainbow Honey Blog and Website

Like Rainbow Honey on Facebook

*Products provided for honest review*

Priti NYC Bahamas Summer Collection + Coupon Code!

2013-06-26T16:29:00.002-04:00

Today I have the gorgeous Priti NYC Bahamas Summer Collection. This collection was inspired by the islands of the Bahamas. The crystal blue sea, pink sand beaches and beach party atmosphere are all encapsulated by this collection. The collection contains 4 polishes: City Girl Rose, Scotch Thistle, Hedgehog Rose, and Baby Blue Eyes.

Scotch Thistle

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Scotch Thistle is a medium dark teal creme. I used 2 coats for full and even coverage. I really love this color, and will definitely be wearing Scotch Thistle year round! The formula was great, I only needed 2 coats, and I had no problems with application.

Baby Blue Eyes

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Baby Blue Eyes is a gorgeous medium blue/almost periwinkle with a very subtle shimmer. I used 2 coats for the pictures above, but another thin coat may be necessary depending on your application. I did have a few issues with the brush on this polish, but I think that was honestly a fluke. This polish is another gorgeous shade, reminiscent of crystal blue water! I know Ill be wearing Baby Blue Eyes a lot this summer and next Spring!

City Girl Rose

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

City Girl Rose is a gorgeous cantaloupe orange creme. I used 2 coats for the picture above. The formula was not as even as the other polishes in this collection, but for the most part 2 coats were pretty smooth. I love this bright orange for summer and will definitely be rocking it throughout the hot weather!

Hedgehog Rose

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Hedgehog Rose is an amazing bright gorgeous coral pink. In certain lighting, Hedgehog Rose appears more bright pink than shown above. I used 2 coats for full and even coverage. I am absolutely in love with this color and want to wear it the whole summer! The formula was fantastic and the color is just amazing!

Overall, Priti NYC does not disappoint with the Bahamas Collection (but honestly when do they ever disappoint?) I love the different shades of this collection and their inspiration for their collections is always pretty awesome to me. I cannot wait to see what they come up with next!

You can purchase the Bahamas Summer Collection Here! AND until AUGUST 1st, use the coupon code: PRITISPECIAL for 10% off all Priti NYC products!

Priti NYC polish can be purchased on their website, the polish is $13.50 per bottle, and the polishes are 3-free!

What do you think of this collection? Let me know on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Priti NYC's website

Like Priti NYC on Facebook

and Follow them on Twitter

*This product was provided by Priti NYC for review. All opinions are my own*

Zoya Stunning Collection!

2013-06-19T19:13:00.000-04:00

Today I have the Zoya Stunning Collection! I was really looking forward to this collection when I first saw it, but I have to say I am a little disappointed, read on to find out why. The collection consists of 6 cremes:

"Summer brings the sunniest colors to nails! Including six super shiny creams to put

all the focus on the brightest shining light in any room - YOU!

Zoya SUMMER 2013: STUNNING Collection

• Darcy (ZP663) - Sunny Yellow Cream - Full Coverage.

• Thandie (ZP664) - Citrus Orange Cream - Full Coverage.

• Micky (ZP665) - Amazing Coral Cream - Full Coverage.

• Yana (ZP669) - Rubine Red Cream - Full Coverage.

• Josie (ZP667) - Grassy Green Cream - Full Coverage.

• Rocky (ZP668) - Serene Blue Cream - Full Coverage."

*Taken from the Zoya Press Release*

(Image From Zoya.com)

Micky

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Micky is a bright coral creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. As you can see, I had a bit of an issue with an unsmooth formula, Micky was not very easy to work with, but I did manage to make it work for this Ikat mani. Micky is definitely a gorgeous color, I just wish the application wasn't so spotty.

Yana

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Coat 3:

Yana is a darker bright corally pink. Yana is a bit more red than Micky. I used 3 coats for full coverage. I did not have major application issues with Yana, although application as not as Zoya's cremes usually are.

Thandie

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Thandie is a bright creamsicle orange! I used 2 coats for full coverage. Thandie's formula was similar to Yana's, not the easiest to work with, but not terrible. I will definitely wear this bright orange this summer!

Josie

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Josie is a medium forest green creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. Josie had the best formula of all the Stunning polishes, it applied pretty smoothly and evenly. I think Josie is a good transition color into and out of summer, as it isn't as bright as some typical summer polishes.

Darcy

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Coat 3:

Darcy is a bright yellow creme. I used 3 coats for full coverage. Application was a bit uneven, I tend to have issues with yellow polishes, but Darcy wasn't nearly as bad as others. Definitely a polish to grab some attention!

Rocky

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Rocky is a bright sky blue creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. The formula was a bit difficult, but not horrendous. I really do love this color, I just wish the formula was a bit smoother.

Overall, I am disappointed with the Zoya Stunning Collection. I think the colors are stunning as the name suggests, but the formulas fell flat. Zoya polishes normally have some of the best formulas, so I think it may be a fluke. I have heard that some bloggers may have received "bad batches" and the formula issues don't affect everyone, but I am not completely positive of that.

Ultra long-wearing, nail lacquers by Zoya are BIG5FREE - all formulas are completely free of harmful industrial chemicals such as toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) that are known to cause cancer and birth defects.

Zoya Polishes retail for $8 and can be purchased at Ulta or on Zoya's Website.

What do you think about the Stunning Collection? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Zoya for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Manicure of the Day: Zoya Ikat Nails!

2013-06-06T11:32:00.000-04:00

Today I have a Mani of the Day using Zoya Micky and Darcy from the Stunning Collection! I used black and white acrylic paint as well to create the design! Ikat nails have been seen all over the Internet and I figured it was my time to give it a try!

First I used 2-3 coats of Micky and let dry. The drying time for Micky isn't as great as Zoya's usually is, but it isn't horrendous by any means. Next I used black acrylic paint and nail art brushes to create the black abstract shapes. I let the paint dry and then used white acrylic paint to make a sort of oval shape(but slightly feathered edges). Let the white dry and then I used the nail art brushes to apply Darcy. After Darcy dried I finished the design with an inner oval of black acrylic paint. I sealed with a clear topcoat (I've been using an old Revlon quick dry topcoat lately as its been laying around!)

I was always nervous about Ikat nails (something about them reminds me of scary looking eyes!) but once the design was on my nails I actually really liked it! These two Zoya Stunning Polishes (Darcy and Micky) were perfect for a summer look!

You can buy the Stunning Collection Here!

What do you think about this Manicure of the Day? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Zoya for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Rainbow Honey Fab Summer Set- Press Release!

2013-06-04T19:00:00.000-04:00

Today I have a quick preview of Rainbow Honey's Fab Summer Set exclusively available at Fab.com!

Exclusive to Fab, the Fab Summer Set is as refreshing as a cold sip of freshly squeezed lemonade. This set of three includes a dazzling array of shimmering polishes: kelly green, deep coral, and a sparkly lacquer that glitters with holographic flecks. Paint yourself in a beautiful new light. -fab

Tenda is a bright kelly green lacquer with golden shimmer

Costa del sol is a shimmery lacquer full of iridescent and holographic glitters ready to add some sun and sparkle to your manicure

Schrammi is a deep coral lacquer with golden shimmer

What do you think about this set, Let me know below! I think its perfect for summer and I am excited to see them in person!

*Information provided by Rainbow Honey*

Manicure of the Day: Floral Print!

2013-05-29T19:00:00.002-04:00

If you have been following Pretty in Paint, you know I LOVE floral print nails, and I absolutely love how this mani turned out! I used Zoya Natty (Review here) as the base of this mani! I created the floral print with pink, green, white, yellow and black acrylic paint! This is a fun floral print to accompany a cute spring/summer look!

I applied 2 coats of Zoya Natty and let dry. I then looked up floral print scrapbook paper, and based the flowers off of the print, I've found these kinds of prints tend to work best on nails and provide a variety of options! I created the white shapes first, with a thin paintbrush. Then I filled in the pink flower shape, followed by the green leaves. I added yellow highlights and finished with the black accents.

I am incredibly proud of this manicure and I really hope you like it! I will definitely continue with floral prints throughout the summer and I can't wait to share them with you all!

What do you think about this Manicure of the Day? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Zoya for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Zoya Summer Pixie Dust Collection

2013-05-23T19:36:00.000-04:00

The review for Zoya Summer Pixie Dust Collection is here! With 6 new polishes with a gorgeous matte sparkly textured finish!

The new polishes are:

Solange
Beatrix
Destiny
Miranda
Stevie
Liberty

Solange

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Solange is a gorgeous bright yellow with a gorgeous matte sparkle finish. There is an amazing twinkle to all of the Pixie Dust polishes, and Solange doesn't disappoint. I am not normally a fan of yellow, but I really love the finish and color and will be wearing this polish again! I used 2 coats of Solange for full and even coverage.

Beatrix

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Beatrix is a bright orange with the Pixie Dust gorgeous finish. I love oranges and I am just in love with Beatrix. I could definitely see pairing Solange and Beatrix together for a spectacular mani. I used 2 coats of Beatrix for full and even coverage.

Destiny

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Destiny is a orange-pink coral with orange and yellow flecks in the Pixie Dust finish. Destiny had full coverage in 2 coats which applied evenly.

Miranda

Coat 1:

Miranda is a pink purple with a pink sparkle with the gorgeous Pixie Dust finish! I used 2 coats for full coverage and even application. This polish has a certain feminine quality about it that I found quite special and pretty!

Stevie

Coat 1:

Stevie is a light lavender polish with a white sparkle and the textured look of the other Pixies. I used 2 coats of Stevie for gorgeous even coverage. Stevie is one of my favorites of this collection and I will definitely be wearing this gorgeous polish again.

Liberty

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Liberty is a bright royal blue with a gorgeous white and blue sparkle. Liberty is a very bright blue that I would not normally find myself wearing, but definitely find extremely pretty. I used 2 coats of Liberty for full coverage.

I love these bright summery polishes! Zoya has done it again with these Pixies, I originally didn't know how I felt about textured polishes, but PixieDust Polishes really are something special!

Ultra long-wearing, nail lacquers by Zoya are BIG5FREE - all formulas are completely free of harmful industrial chemicals such as toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) that are known to cause cancer and birth defects.

Zoya PixieDust retail for $9 and can be purchased at Ulta or on Zoya's Website.

What do you think about the PixieDust Summer Collection? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Zoya for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Fun in the Sun Multi-Blogger and Shop Giveaway!

2013-05-22T12:09:00.001-04:00

I am super excited to share this enormous giveaway with you all! I am taking part in the Fun in the Sun Multi-blogger and Shop Giveaway! I am donating a Mystery Prize Pack to the giveaway (and trust me there are some gorgeous polishes in it!) and there are a ton of fabulous prizes! Check out Musing of the Wife of a Jedi's Post for full details!

US Only
a Rafflecopter giveaway

US and International
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mani of the Day + BornPrettyStore Blooming Flower Ring

2013-05-20T16:49:00.001-04:00

Today Pretty in Paint returns! I am sorry for the hiatus (again!), school and personal issues have kept me from blogging, the past year has definitely had its up and downs, but I am back and ready to show you pretty manis and swatches!

I have a Mani of the Day, a black and white outline of a flower to match this gorgeous BornPrettyStore Blooming Flower Ring.

I used Jessica Nadia (review here), as well and black and white acrylic paint to create this mani!

And now for the ring!

I think they compliment each other well!

To create the mani I used 2 coats of Jessica Nadia and let dry. I then used a thin paintbrush dipped in black acrylic paint to draw the outline of the flower. I then added a few white accents in the outline to provide a little something extra! I topped with a clear topcoat and let dry!

Make sure you check out BornPrettyStore for nail polishes, nail art supplies, jewelry and so much more! You can use this code: PJL91 for 10% off!

Find the ring here: ID: 2504.( http://www.bornprettystore.com/three-colours-beautiful-metal-blooming-flower-ring-adjustable-p-2504.html )

I really do like how this Mani of the Day turned out, what do you think? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Jessica's Website! Like Jessica Cosmetics on Facebook, or Follow Jessica Cosmetics on Twitter!

*These products were provided for an honest review, all opinions are my own!*

Mani of the Day:Simple Accent

2013-04-25T13:24:00.002-04:00

Today I have a simple Mani of the Day using some of the Milani High Speed Fast Dry Polishes: Flaming Race and Pink Express. I also used an Essence Silver Striping Polish.

I used 2 coats of Flaming Race on all nails except my accent nail. I then painted my nail half with Pink Express (2 coats) and Flaming Race (2 coats). I finished with a thin swipe of the Essence silver striper polish and topped with a clear topcoat!

Sometimes simple is best! Just a quick look perfect for those without a lot of time!

What do you think of these High Speed Fast Dry Polishes and the Mani of the Day? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Milani High Speed Fast Dry Polishes

2013-04-18T14:10:00.000-04:00

Today I have the new shades of Milani High Speed Fast Dry Polishes. These 6 polishes add to the 8 High Speed polishes Milani previously released, (reviewed here).

The new polishes are:

Flaming Race
Move on Mauve
Rapid Orchard
Quick Teal
Pink Express
Instant Pearl

Flaming Race

Coat 1:

Flaming Race is described as a "red coral creme," it has a definite red-orange feel to it. The formula was opaque, I only needed 1 coat for full coverage.

Move on Mauve

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Move on Mauve is a medium pink with a shimmery pearl finish. I used 2 coats for a smooth opaque finish. Pearly polishes tend to leave brush marks for me, but I don't particularly mind with this polish. I like the delicate feel, but I don't know if the shade works well with my skintone.

Quick Teal

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Quick Teal is a bright teal creme. I love the brightness of the blue. I used 2 coats for full coverage, but Quick Teal was not as smooth as the other polishes. I used Quick Teal for my Whale Mani!

Rapid Orchard

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Rapid Orchard is a vampy, dark purple/red. When I first saw the polish bottle I thought it was black! It wasn't until I applied Rapid Orchard that I realized the true color. I used 2 coats for full coverage. The polish was super smooth, I tend to have application issues (flooding and things of the nature) with polishes like this, but no problems here!

Pink Express

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Pink Express is a light baby pink creme. I had the most formula issues with Pink Express. I used 2 coats for full coverage, but could not get smooth even coats.

Instant Pearl

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Instant Pearl is a white shimmery pearl polish. I used 2 coats for full, smooth coverage. I think a white pearly polish is a nice essential to have to spice up some nail art, and Instant Pearl definitely fits the bill!

Overall, Milani has high quality fast dry polishes, some of the formulas on this round of polishes were a little off, but the colors can be staples in a polish collection and great to have around!

What do you think of these High Speed Fast Dry Polishes? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Mani of the Day: Whales!

2013-04-13T10:06:00.003-04:00

Today I have a cute mani that I super excited to show you! Its definitely not for everyone but I wanted to do this cute whale print! I used Milani Teal Quick for the base of his mani and light blue and black acrylic paint for the design. Acrylic paint is available at your local craft store!

These were my supplies! Obviously I use the light blue a lot!

I used 2 coats of Milani Teal Quick and let dry. I then used a thin paint brush to create a whale shape. I drew the hearts with a dotting tool and paint brush dipped in black acrylic paint. Once the light blue was dry, I used a dotting tool to create the black eyes. I waited a while for the paint to dry fully and then applied a clear topcoat! I used 2-3 coats of topcoat, to make sure everything was fully covered.

I am really happy with this design, I think its young and cute and I might try recreating other animal prints soon!

What do you think of this Mani of the Day? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Mani of the Day: Texture Colorblock Mani

2013-04-05T11:54:00.003-04:00

A quick post for you all! I'm been reviewing textured polishes lately and wanted to put them together for this simple mani! I used Milani Aqua Splash and Shady Gray (reviewed here) and Zoya Dahlia (reviewed here) for this blocked mani!

This design was completely freehanded, I think the texture polish is a bit more forgiving than normal polish. I started off by diagonally painting half my nail with Aqua Splash and then Shady Gray. I waited for the polishes to dry before applying a line of Dahlia between the two color blocks.

I think this mani is a different way to wear textured polish. I like how freehanding did not end up turning out as sloppy as normal, and I like the combination of this polishes.

What do you think of this mani? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani and Zoya. All opinions are my own.*

Milani Texture Nail Lacquer!

2013-03-29T13:42:00.000-04:00

It seems like Texture Week at Pretty in Paint! Today I have Milani Texture Creams for you! There are 6 vibrant shades, with a matte textured look. The textured look has been a trend with many major companies lately: OPI, Zoya, Milani, Nails Inc and others, each with their own spin on it.

Yellow Mark

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Yellow Mark is a bright yellow textured cream. The texture appears a lot thicker after the second coat, but the formula was easily to apply, smooth (minus the texture obviously) and opaque in 2 coats. Yellow Mark is one of my least favorite out of the polishes, I'm not sure how I like the textured look in a yellow.

Tainted in Red

Coat 1:

Tainted in Red is a red-orange texture cream. I only used 1 coat for the above pictures, and I like how the texture is not as bulky as with Yellow Mark. I like the textured look with Tainted in Red and the formula was opaque after only 1 coat.

Spoiled in Fuchsia

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Spoiled in Fuchsia is a bright pink. I don't really see the purple in this polish, but I think is a gorgeous color and I don't mind the texture in it either! I used 2 coats for full coverage. This polish is a perfect bright spring or summer color!

Purple Streak

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Purple Streak is a deep purple texture cream. I used 2 coats for full coverage, the first coat was slightly streaky, but the second coat covered evenly and opaquely. I like the texture with a darker color, it looks very different from some of the brighter colors.

Aqua Splash

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Aqua Splash is a bright aqua texture cream. Aqua is my favorite color so I am always a little biased when it comes to aqua polishes, and I like this one too! Aqua Splash is not as opaque as the other polishes, but I like how 2 coats looks. The texture was not as bulky and seems more delicate than some of the other polishes.

Shady Gray

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Shady Gray is a dark gray texture creme. I used 2 coats for full coverage. Although the texture look is a bit bulkier, I like the matte texture look of this gray. It seems slightly grungy and provides a different feel than the other polishes.

Overall, Milani's Texture Creams have an easy to apply formula that dries quickly and a range of shades that allows you different looks! These texture creams are different from the sparklier, shimmery textures out there and I kind of like it! I don't think textured polish will be a new staple in my nail polish collection, but definitely a way to spice up a regular mani on occassion!

Retail Price: $4.99 each

Where to Buy: Miliani.com, CVS, Walgreens, Sears, KMart, Target

What do you think of these Texture Creams? Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Milani's website, Like Milani on Facebook, Follow Milani on Twitter!

*Products were provided for review by Milani. All opinions are my own.*

Zoya PixieDust Collection!

2013-03-25T21:56:00.000-04:00

Today I have the Zoya PixieDust Collection for review! The collection is described by Zoya as follows

"Zoya PixieDust

Infused with Magic and Wonder!

Featuring the latest “must-have” nail polish finish – Textured, Matte & Sparkling.

This newly developed formula is sure to captivate with a magical sparkle and sugary finish like no other. The color experts at Zoya have created six, long-wearing stunners for the introduction of this look...

ZOYA PIXIE DUST - SPECIAL EDITION

Dahlia (ZP656) - Black Beauty sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula.

Chyna (ZP657) - Red Dazzle sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula.

Godiva (ZP658) - Soft Nude sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula.

Vespa (ZP659) - Mint Kiss sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula.

Nyx (ZP660) - Perfect Periwinkle sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula.

London (ZP661) - Fog Gray sparkle, exclusive Zoya PixieDust Matte Sparkle formula. "

Vespa

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Vespa is a gorgeous wintry mint green with a matte sparkle. All of the PixieDust polishes have the same matte texture with sparkle! I used 2 coats for full opacity. I was expecting the polishes to be difficult to work with, but I had no issues with any of the polishes. The formula was pretty much the same for all of the PixieDust polishes, they applied evenly and were opaque after 2 coats.

I liked the color of Vespa, the shade is a unique color that I think can work for many different seasons, winter fall and spring!

Nyx

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Nyx is a gorgeous periwinkle with a blueish hue. I am a big fan of Nyx, the color is delicate and feminine but not too soft, it still makes a statement!

London

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

London is a medium gray color, not too overpowering. I am always a fan of grays and London is not an exception. I used London for this mani of the day! I really think London can be versatile especially with topcoat.

Dahlia

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Dahlia is a strong black with a powerful sparkle! Dahlia is a bit too overpowering for me, but I know some other people could definitely rock this!

Godiva

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

I love the softness of Godiva, a sandy nude with the gorgeous PixieDust sparkle! I think Godiva can be worn year round, and is a spicier take on a normal nude polish. Godiva reminds me a beach sand and could definitely be used for some fun summer nailart!

Chyna

Coat 1:

Coat 2:

Chyna stands out to me, the glitter is a bit different from the rest of the PixieDust polishes and reminds me of Dorothy's Slipper's from the Wizard of Oz! I am not normally a fan of reds, but there is something spectacular about Chyna and I get the feeling I will be using this polish to spice up a few manis!

Overall, I am pleasantly surprised by the PixieDust Collection! I was worried about the texture look, but I love the way these babies sparkle! I also love how they look with a few coats of topcoat! I cannot wait for the summer PixieDust Collection and hope they have the same gorgeous formula!

Zoya PixieDust retail for $9 and can be purchased at Ulta or on Zoya's Website.

What do you think about the PixieDust Collection? Tell me below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook

Check out Zoya's Blog and Website, Like Zoya on Facebook, and Follow them on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Zoya for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

Bloglovin!

2013-03-25T16:49:00.003-04:00

Just a quick reminder that Google Reader will be terminated in July and to make sure you're following Pretty in Paint you can add Bloglovin!

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Jessica Cosmetics Flash Fusion 2.5.2

2013-03-20T19:01:00.000-04:00

Today I have the Jessica Cosmetics Flash Fusion Self-Curing Gel Colour system! The system usings a primer, colour activator, brush cleaner and flash-off remover. This review is of the gorgeous pink Express, one of the 6 polishes of the system. The system also includes replacement brushes, and a dappen dish.

Express:

Application is a bit complicated, but not too bad! First you have to make sure your nails are super clean, no polish residue, oils or basecoats. Start with a coat of the primer, and before it is dry, apply a thin coat of the Colour Activator (Express). Repeat this process until desired coverage is reached. The last coat is a coat of primer that is allowed to dry fully.

My nails looked super shiny and did not show tip wear. However, I did have some major chips on a nail or two after a day or two, but I do a decent amount with my hands and have been known to bite them! I was overall incredibly impressed with the system and hope they come out with different polishes, I would be interested in a shimmer polish, although the creme are still beautiful! Also, the polish dried SUPER fast, and came off easily with the remover that was provided, you cannot use normal remover, and avoid picking off the polish, it is terrible for the health of your nails! I loved the quickness of the system, and have used it multiple times!

Would you try this self-curing system? No UV or LED light needed! Let me know below or on Pretty in Paint's Facebook!

Check out Jessica's Website! Like Jessica Cosmetics on Facebook, or Follow Jessica Cosmetics on Twitter!

*These products were provided by Jessica Cosmetics for review. All opinions are my own*